Quito to Cuenca 4 or 5-Day Tour with Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños and Chimborazo
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5d
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About this experience
Explore Ecuador's Andes through the well known Avenue of the Volcanos from Quito to Cuenca (one-way) on our 4-day or 5-day excursion. Alongside a bilingual tour guide, explore top Ecuadorian highlights including Quilotoa crater lake, Cotopaxi volcano, the Pailon del Diablo waterfall, indigenous markets, and the Ingapirca Inca ruins. Your package is inclusive of accommodation and some meals for a hassle-free experience.
Highlights
- Learn about Ecuador's history, culture, nature and geology from your licensed guide.
- Include an optional biking experience at Chimborazo or Cotopaxi, for an added fee.
- Superior tour include accommodation in top hotels.
Available options
First Class 5-Day Private Tour
First Class Hotels: First-Class Experience: Enjoy a private tour with premium flexibility, staying in 4-5 star hotels like Abraspungo in Riobamba<br/>Duration: 5 days<br/>SUV, Van or Minibus with AC<br/>Private tour<br/>Pickup included
Budget 4-Day Shared Tour
4-night Budget Accommodation: Featuring a private room with a private bathroom and hot water.<br/>Duration: 4 days<br/> Tour Option Variance: Please select any two preferred days between Day 1 and Day 3 for your experience.<br/>Shared tour: You might be part of a group and share the trip with other guests.<br/>Pickup included
Budget 5-day Shared Tour
4-night Standard Hotel <br/>Duration: 5 days<br/>Shared Tour<br/>Pickup included
First Class 4-Day Private Tour
First Class Hotels: First-Class Experience: Enjoy a private tour with premium flexibility, staying in 4-5 star hotels like Abraspungo in Riobamba<br/>Duration: 4 days<br/>SUV, VAN, Minibus with AC<br/>Private tour<br/>Pickup included
What's included
3 or 4 nights accommodation (Based on option selected)
Executive transportation: SUVs (2-3 pax), Minivans (4-6 pax), or Minibuses (7-20 pax)
Entrance fees and activities as detailed in the itinerary
Breakfast
Licensed tour guide (English/Spanish)
What's not included
Gratuities (Optional based on your satisfaction)
Something not specified here in
Horseback Riding and Adventure Sport Experiences
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
39 reviews
5★
39
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Last-minute bookings depend on guide availability.
• This tour is offered in 4- or 5-day versions; lodging and meals vary by option.
• Tour based on double/triple occupancy; single supplement applies.
• Ingapirca Ruins are closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Contact us at info@cuencabestours.com at least 48 hours in advance to confirm.
• Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals available upon request.
• A valid passport or ID (copy/photo accepted) is required.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• For groups of 1–6, the bilingual guide also drives; for more than 6, both guide and driver are included.
• Standard option may include other travelers.
Ecuador Tips
Ecuador’s weather is highly unpredictable. Don’t rely too heavily on weather apps—they're often inaccurate in the Andes. Here are a few packing tips to help you prepare:
- Hat and sunscreen – essential even on cloudy days near the equator.
- Dress in layers – mornings may be warm (70–80°F), but afternoons can cool rapidly (35–45°F). “Dress like an onion,” as locals say.
- Light rain jacket – occasional afternoon showers are common.
- Warm coat or jacket – temperatures drop significantly at night.
- Comfortable shoes – hiking shoes are best for trails and protected areas.
- Camera – the Andean landscapes are breathtaking.
- Gloves and hat – especially useful when visiting Cotopaxi or Chimborazo, where it can dip into the 30s°F.
About Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums
TelefériQo
A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Nature
Half to full day
Budget
Basílica del Voto Nacional
One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget
Capilla del Hombre
A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Llocro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Dinner
Contains meat
Encebollado
A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.
Lunch
Contains fish
Empanadas de Viento
Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest
Paragliding over Quito
Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs
Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances
Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace
Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center
Exploring local markets and shopping areas
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)
Getting around
Public transport
Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
La Floresta
González Suárez
El Panecillo
Day trips
Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day
A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day
A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day
Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Fiestas de Quito • Early December
Inti Raymi • June 21-24
Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
- Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
